slow dying winter gem shrubs - Knowledgebase Question

I planted some winter Gem Boxwoods last summer about 2.5 feet apart in a square around a bed. Almost immediately one by one they began turning brown and dying . Could this be pests?. I can send a picture!

Unfortunately we are not able to accept photos and based on your description I am not certain what has happened. They might possibly have a pest or disease issue, but there are many possible cultural causes for browning as well. It is possible they were planted too deeply, or were over or underwatered, or that the site is not well drained. There might be some sort of soil imbalance in terms of nutrients or pH, or they might have been overfertilized. I would strongly suggest you consult with the retailer where they were purchased, especially if they had a warranty. (It would have been best to check right away rather than wait so long.) Also, you might consult now with your local county extension and see if they can help you trouble shoot the problem. If it is a pest or disease problem, they will be able to tell you the most up to date controls and how/when is best to apply them. I'm sorry you are having trouble with your boxwoods.